The Tennessee Titans made headlines recently when they decided to part ways with head coach Mike Vrabel after missing the playoffs for a second consecutive season. This move came as a surprise to many, especially after a 6-1 start to the season. With a new GM in Ran Carthon, the Titans seem to be headed in a new direction. But what exactly are the Titans doing? Let’s delve into their recent moves and try to make sense of their offseason strategy.
Was Firing Vrabel the Right Move?
The Titans’ front office clearly felt that a change was needed at the helm, believing that Vrabel wasn’t maximizing the team’s potential. However, a closer look at the Titans’ roster raises questions about whether any coach could have led this team to the playoffs. The offensive skill positions were particularly weak in 2023.
The Titans’ receiving corps was a mixed bag, with DeAndre Hopkins leading the pack. However, at 31 years old (32 by the start of the 2024 season), Hopkins is nearing the twilight of his career. The remaining receivers—Tajae Sharpe, Chigoziem Okonkwo, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and Chris Moore—lacked the consistency and playmaking ability to strike fear into opposing defenses.
The Tennessee Titans' wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) makes a catch during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, in London
The offensive line, often considered the backbone of a successful team, was a glaring weakness for the Titans. Despite having the promising Peter Skoronski, their first-round pick in the 2023 draft, the line struggled mightily throughout the season. The Titans’ quarterbacks were sacked a staggering 64 times in 2023, highlighting the line’s inability to provide adequate protection. To put this into perspective, Sam Howell of the Washington Commanders was sacked 65 times, but he also attempted nearly 50 more passes than the Titans’ quarterbacks combined. The lack of a reliable offensive line significantly hampered the Titans’ offensive production and made it difficult for any quarterback to succeed.
A Look Ahead at the AFC South
The Titans’ path back to contention is further complicated by the evolving landscape of the AFC South. While not necessarily a powerhouse division, the AFC South is no longer the pushover it was once perceived to be.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, despite a down year in 2023, are a formidable team with a young and talented quarterback in Trevor Lawrence.
The Houston Texans, after years of struggles, appear to be on the rise after a surprise division title in 2023. With quarterback C.J. Stroud showcasing immense potential in his rookie year, the Texans are poised to be a competitive force for the foreseeable future.
The Indianapolis Colts, led by the promising young quarterback Anthony Richardson and head coach Shane Steichen, exceeded expectations in 2023. Despite relying on a backup quarterback for much of the season, the Colts showed flashes of brilliance, suggesting a bright future ahead.
The Titans, meanwhile, find themselves at a crossroads. With a new head coach and a young quarterback in Will Levis, the team is in the midst of a transition period. The lack of a clear direction, coupled with the improved competition within the division, makes the Titans’ path forward uncertain.
Is Will Levis the Answer?
Will Levis, the Titans’ second-round draft pick in 2023, is seen as the potential franchise quarterback of the future. While he showed promise in his limited playing time, notably throwing four touchdowns in his NFL debut against the Atlanta Falcons, Levis still needs time to develop.
Will Levis (8) of the Tennessee Titans looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 01, 2023 in London, England.
However, Levis cannot single-handedly elevate the Titans back to prominence. The Titans’ front office must surround him with a capable supporting cast, particularly on the offensive line and at the wide receiver position.
What’s Next for the Titans?
The Titans face a crucial offseason as they attempt to rebuild their roster and establish a new identity. With significant cap space available, the Titans must be aggressive in free agency to address their glaring needs.
Prioritizing the offensive line should be paramount. Securing a top-tier left tackle to protect Levis’ blind side is essential. Trading up in the draft to select a blue-chip prospect or pursuing a proven veteran in free agency should be strong considerations.
Adding a true number one receiver to complement Hopkins and provide Levis with a reliable target is crucial. Exploring trades for established stars or targeting a top receiver in the draft could significantly bolster the Titans’ passing attack.
While the Titans’ offseason moves have been perplexing, the team still has the potential to turn things around. By making shrewd decisions in free agency and the draft and providing Levis with the necessary support, the Titans can begin to build a competitive roster capable of challenging in the AFC South.
